Thanks to the Polar Vortex

Over the last couple of days the Midwest experienced some of the coldest temperatures ever recorded, including air temperatures of -23, and wind chills as low as -47 degrees. These extreme conditions forced many of us to stay indoors and avoid exposure to the dangerously brutal conditions. While I have just described what seems to be a dreadful situation, I have decided to dedicate this blog to the silver lining of the Polar Vortex. 

Tuesday evening through Friday morning, I was reminded of what this life is all about, family. In the hustle and bustle of the daily grind of 21st century living, it is rare, if not an anomaly, to have everyone home with absolutely nothing to do and nowhere to be except together. Staying in pajamas all day long, extended mornings fueled by hot coffee, pancakes, and snuggling, were nothing short of delightful. Afternoons occupied by binge watching Netflix, at home yoga sessions, and simply enjoying the absence of a schedule nourished our collective soul. Evenings took on a whole new feel in that we were not rushing around or stressing to prepare for the next day. We were able to just simply enjoy the moment.  On Wednesday evening, our neighbors braved the cold and joined us for an impromptu "Polar Vortex Bash" complete with a smorgasbord potluck and boardgames. We ate, drank, laughed, relaxed, and enjoyed the unexpected mid-week gathering.

The gift of togetherness doesn't occur nearly as much as it should with all the demands of modern life. When did life get so busy? Work life balance proves to be a constant challenge in households with two working parents and our 24 hour accessibility via technology. Clearly this post is not intended to bash technology, but to highlight and celebrate days that require us to press pause, take a time out and to reconnect with our innermost circle, our family. Thanks to the Polar Vortex, the demands and distractions of the outside world were shut out and kept at bay for a couple of days. Our focus was on each other and the beauty and warmth generated by togetherness. So for all of you who may have jumped to the conclusion that this bitter cold blast of arctic air must have been awful, think again. Thanks to the Polar Vortex our family was able to reconnect, recharge, and realign while being reminded what this life is all about.